Navy Veteran & Parent | Honors College Tutor for All Learners

Michael P.

Elementary (K-6th)

Certified Paraprofessional: I hold a paraprofessional certification and have hands-on experience working with K–6 students in small group settings. This training has given me the skills to adapt lessons to the specific needs of each student, ensuring they receive the personalized attention and support they need to succeed. Specialized Support for Special Needs: I have experience working with students who have learning differences, ADHD, and other special needs. I’m skilled at breaking down complex concepts into manageable steps, using patience and clear communication to help students stay engaged and understand the material. Strong Foundation in Writing & Reading: As a passionate advocate for literacy, I offer tutoring in all aspects of writing—from grammar and spelling to organizing essays and developing creative writing skills. I also provide reading comprehension strategies to help students better understand texts, build vocabulary, and improve fluency. Tailored Study Skills & Homework Help: I specialize in helping K–6 students with time management, organization, and test preparation. Whether it's breaking down homework into manageable parts or helping students develop effective study routines, I ensure that they feel confident and prepared. Parent and Military Experience: As a parent of two academically successful children, I understand the challenges that parents face in supporting their children's education. My experience in the U.S. Navy has also given me a strong work ethic, discipline, and the ability to stay calm under pressure—qualities I bring to my tutoring sessions, helping students stay focused and motivated. Holistic Academic Growth: I believe that every student can succeed with the right tools and encouragement. I work not only on academic skills but also on boosting students' confidence, fostering a growth mindset, and creating a positive learning environment where students feel safe to ask questions and make mistakes. Flexible, Student-Centered Approach: Every student is unique, and I tak

Essay Writing

Strong Foundation in Writing: As an Honors College student at Southeast Missouri State University, I have honed my own writing skills, from crafting essays to writing research papers. I’m passionate about helping students develop their own writing voices while mastering the essentials of grammar, structure, and clarity. Essay Structure & Organization: I help students break down the essay-writing process into manageable steps—brainstorming ideas, creating outlines, drafting clear thesis statements, and structuring arguments logically. Whether it’s persuasive, expository, or narrative writing, I ensure students feel confident organizing their thoughts and ideas. Personalized Feedback & Editing: I provide thoughtful, constructive feedback on drafts, focusing on how to strengthen arguments, refine writing style, and enhance clarity. I work with students to improve their revision skills, making sure they learn how to self-edit for grammar, flow, and cohesion. Experience with All Levels of Essay Writing: I support students at all levels, from elementary school essays to high school research papers. Whether it’s helping younger students with their first essays or guiding high schoolers through more complex assignments, I tailor my approach to the student’s individual needs and skill level. Research Paper Support: For students working on research papers, I offer guidance on how to conduct research, organize sources, cite references properly, and develop strong, evidence-based arguments. I also help students understand the importance of academic integrity and proper citation styles (APA, MLA, etc.). Patience & Encouragement: I understand that writing can be intimidating for many students. My goal is to make the process approachable and enjoyable, encouraging creativity while also focusing on the technical aspects of writing. I’m here to support students through the struggles and celebrate their progress. Military and Paraprofessional Background: My time in the U.S. Navy taught me discipline and the ability to approa

Special Needs

Special Education Fundamentals: Understanding diverse learning needs and applying effective strategies for students with learning differences (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, autism). Behavioral Strategies in Education: Experience with behavior management and positive reinforcement to support students’ emotional and academic development. Educational Psychology: Gaining insight into cognitive development and how students learn at different stages, particularly those with special needs. Teaching Students with Disabilities: Practical knowledge on how to adapt teaching techniques to support students with a wide range of abilities, including modifications for various learning challenges. Tutoring and Small Group Instruction: Hands-on experience providing individualized support for students with learning disabilities in small group or one-on-one settings. Paraprofessional Certification: Training in working alongside lead educators to implement lesson plans and provide direct support to students in special education classrooms. Assistive Technology Training: Familiarity with various tools and resources designed to assist students with learning disabilities or physical challenges. Developmental & Educational Assessments: Skills in evaluating student progress and tailoring instructional methods to meet individual needs.